Elle Fanning Wore Ralph Lauren To The 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards

You weren’t entirely sold on Elle Fanning’s ’50s-inflected look at the Palm Springs International Film Festival, but she’s clearly not retreating, as for Sunday night’s 2026 Critics’ Choice Awards, she stayed firmly in the fashion archives.

The Sentimental Value actress wore an archival gown from Ralph Lauren Fall 2003 collection, which still reads contemporary. With its fluid drape, shimmering gold fabric, and plunging neckline that cascades like liquid metal, the dress could easily be mistaken for something fresh off a Spring 2026 runway. That either speaks volumes about Ralph Lauren’s enduring design language—or highlights just how cyclical fashion truly is.

At this point in awards season, we’ve usually seen Elle settle into at least one of her signature neutral-toned gowns. Instead, she’s switching gears early, embracing archival glamour with a hint of predictability.

There’s also something refreshing about how unfussy the overall styling feels. Nothing is competing with the dress itself, which allows its elegance to land without distraction. The Cartier rings were a subtle finishing touch.

Could this be a sign of how Elle plans to navigate the rest of awards season? Digging into fashion history while keeping her choices relevant?

Stylist: Samantha McMillen. Makeup Artist: Erin Ayanian Monroe. Hair Stylist: Jenda Alcorn.

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